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Rule the roost
Pro tip: Different breeds of chickens will produce different colors and quantities of eggs. | Photo by Alison Burrell, via Pexels
Interested in joining the urban farming force? It’s completely legal to raise backyard chickens in Richmond — and coops for egg production can be a hot commodity. Here’s what you need to know to get crackin’.
The City of Richmond permits raising chickens in all residential districts, as long as residents follow certain guidelines + obtain an official $60 permit.
FYI: Prior to acquiring the permit, an inspector will stop by to assess the distance of your backyard. A regulation-standard coop must be over 15 feet from any adjacent dwelling.
What’s the (s)coop?
Your chickens need a home, and according to city code, they must stay cooped up — no free roaming. When it’s time to build your chickens’ dream house, there are some guidelines to keep in mind.
Continuing our backyard barn animal content… Local chain Chicken Fiesta has big plans for rural expansion in Varina — a 114-acre ranch suitable for a new steakhouse restaurant, wedding bookings, horseback rides, and fluffy Highland cows. No word on actual chickens yet, but there are about two years of development before that’s finalized. (WTVR + Richmond BizSense)
State
Gov. Abigail Spanberger signed a batch of bills into Virginia law yesterday, March 31. The bundle of new legislation regards healthcare, housing, energy use, costs for disabled veterans, and tax filing affordability. Read a summarized list. (WTVR)
Announced
We have two Richmond Renaissance Faire decrees: The Faire is officially sold out + organizers have opened ticket sales for two after-parties on Saturday, April 18 and Sunday, 19. If you weren’t able to lock in for daytime festivities, here’s your second chance. Find tickets at Gallery5’s event page.
Opening
Brunchella Brunch and Coffee House is preparing for its Carytown debut. You may have already noticed the cafe’s new sign at the former Garden Grove Brewing building. Anticipated to open this month, menu offerings will include cafe-style pastries and drinks, as well as American and Mediterranean-inspired brunches. (Richmond BizSense)
Coming Soon
In recent news, the developing Texas Beach bridge will be replaced by a high-speed zip-line system… April Fools. The dearly-missed river access point will retain its pedestrian bridge status, and in real recent news, it’s expected to reopen by the end of the year. (12 On Your Side)
Gallery
Get a closer look at a new mural installed at CarMax Park ahead of next week’s season opener. The piece was created by local artist Matt Lively, and you can see it in person with tickets to one of next week’s inaugural games.
The Buy
A trendy square-cut tank under $15 that’s a great wardrobe basic for spring and summer. It’s double-lined, soft, and has the right amount of stretch to flatter curves. Stock up in black, white, or both.
In honor of April Fool’s Day, I’m throwing it back to this devious prank from 2019, devised by a local tattoo shop with a lot of ink — enough to rile up thousands of Richmonders and earn the shop a heated one-star review.
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